A Data Standards Weblog

Monday, 06 February 2012

Consumer Electronics Show 2012

Some of the new devices showcased at the 2012 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) go beyond cool – they point to potentially substantial benefits. One such is a hand-cranked tablet. I like the idea of anything that doesn't need a charger and can see the benefit to kids in the developing world. But I'm also struck by the implication that power requirements for handheld devices must be tumbling. Battery life is the major issue with mobile devices – I'd put it ahead of network coverage. My Kindle gives weeks of use on one charge, thanks to its low-energy electronic ink screen. I know electronic ink isn't appropriate for every application, but it will nevertheless have a hand in raising people's expectations of other types of devices.

The show also saw announcements of new tabletop gene sequencers that can bring down the cost of running a whole-person genome to $1,000 or even $500. These machines are becoming more affordable to researchers, and as the technology develops we can't be far from the point where it starts appearing in doctors' offices. The insurance industry will be taking a keen interest in how this market pans out.

ACORD LOMA DAILY NEWS

New Book

My latest book presents the challenges members face when adopting industry standards as well as the opportunities that come as a result. It features my discussions with many people over many years and follows the foundation I set in my first book "The Business Information Revolution".

Industry standards are never adopted in a vacuum. They become part and parcel of all the trials and tribulations managers face in their day to day work. ACORD Standards are always part of a larger software development project that brings along people, priorities and politics. Adopting industry standards isn't simple, but the benefits far outweigh the problems of building and maintaining proprietary alternatives.

I trust that you will appreciate my frankness, identify with some of the challenges and learn from what others have done to pave the way.

Previous Book

This is a PDF version of my book. You have my permission to view, save and print copies for your personal use. Use your browser "Back" button to return to the blog after you visit or print a chapter. If you want a clean copy, it's available at the Amazon bookstore.